It is a journey enviable to many. To some, it may not be.
Living in a “land flowing with milk and honey” is indeed a cause for salivating, especially for many amongst peers, colleagues and friends who aspire to leave behind a third-worldy abode.
As to working or “tilling the ground,” that may just seem to be the opposite as one has to face so many challenges in a foreign land. The United States is a place for both endeavors.
Romina Guevarra, 48 years old from Mabalacat City, bravely embarked on a bold journey that is not just for her own personal and professional growth. It was also a journey that fostered excellence in learning across borders.
She is now a contract teacher in Arizona, USA.
Romina left her teaching career in the Philippines. Already with 13 years of experience at the time when she decided to try it in the US, Romina’s decision was a tough task, unknowing of what destiny may bring her.
Working for the government’s Department of Education in the Philippines is already a satisfying job, if not totally fulfilling. It pays better than her counterparts in the private sector. As a career teacher protected with eligibility, her tenure with the government is also secure.
Still, she took the risk of venturing into working abroad in 2019. A greener pasture – both in pay and in professional development.
The Transformative Turn
As a J1 teacher in the US, little did she know that her journey would take some transformative turns.
This move not only represented a significant personal and professional milestone but also highlighted her unwavering commitment to fostering educational excellence across borders.
The transition was not without hurdles. At first, she had to leave her family behind (husband and 2 kids). But that she faced with hopes for a better future for all of them in the US. Homesickness had to be fought back.
Teaching in the US enabled her to share experiences and unique perspectives on education. It also allowed her (and family) to embrace new challenges, adapt to a different educational system, and learn innovative approaches to teaching and learning in a multicultural setting.
Her experience in the Philippines
She has that vision to inspire change.
Back home in PH, Romina’s career was marked by extraordinary achievements. These represent a manifestation of her deep passion for education.
Armed with but a Bachelor of Elementary Education from Republic Central Colleges, a local school from where she comes from, she introduced innovative teaching methods.
She did not mind peer pressure and even office politics, she championed inclusive education and played a pivotal role in curriculum development. This has left a lasting imprint on many students and colleagues alike.
Teaching in the Philippines, especially in a rural set-up, requires more than theories and lesson plans. Thus, she exerted efforts that went beyond the four corners of the classrooms. She went the extra mile of engaging the community to support student learning and well-being.
“Romina’s dedication to education was not just about imparting knowledge but about shaping young minds to become thoughtful, compassionate, and responsible citizens,” said Audrey Mathias.
An Inspiration
In the US, Romina has continued to make a significant impact.
“It is a tough job teaching students with diverse backgrounds. One has to learn how to bridge cultural gaps and foster mutual understanding with everyone, especially among students,” said Romina.
At ACCLAIM Academy where she is assigned, students come from Asian, Hispanic, American and European ethnic backgrounds.
What she has achieved in the US is a source of inspiration to other teachers who want to follow her lead. Especially for those who want to try their luck abroad.
Princess Karla Tongol, a neighbor and a registered teacher in the Philippines, has but only admiration for what Romina has achieved. And she wants to follow her footsteps.
“I wish I could do the same. I want to also track a career path where I could also share my knowledge and teaching skill abroad like the US. Notwithstanding the good pay for teachers, I also want to gain that experience and thus gain professional growth,” said Princess.
Always on a temp basis, Princess has been in and out of teaching jobs as no regular positions are available for her in government plantilla positions.
Dedication
Romina’s dedication to excellence and innovation has not only enriched the lives of her students in the USA but has also served as a testament to the global nature of teaching and learning.
Such fruition of her hard work she considers as rewards. She considers all these as part of an ongoing journey.
A journey that underscores the importance of cross-cultural exchange in education and the powerful role teachers play in shaping a more interconnected and empathetic world.
Her story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education. It is a call to action for educators everywhere to continue pushing boundaries, embracing new opportunities, and making a difference in the lives of students across the globe.
There are so many Rominas out there. And there are countless even for those who want to become like one.
Teachers should be celebrated as beacons of dedication, innovation, and global citizenship in the teaching profession. Their legacy is one of bridging cultures, inspiring change, and fostering a love for learning that transcends borders.
